In Mindanao and Visayas, there is a popular vegetable soup called "Law-uy”. Also goes by the name “Utan Bisaya”. Law-uy is usually consists of moringa leaves, squash, spinach leaves, eggplant and slimy vegetables and root crops that give it its distinctive consistency such saluyot, okra, patola, and taro. These vegetables are boiled in water, then, lemongrass, and fried fish are added to flavor it. It is one of the simplest Filipino vegetable dishes since all you need to do is boil the vegetables and season the soup. In addition, the majority of these vegetables can be grown in your own backyard, giving you immediate access to fresh foods. Usually, this dish is eaten with meat, fish, or both that has been grilled or fried. It's easy, healthy, and incredibly tasty, that is why it is also considered as a comfort food by many especially during rainy seasons. It doesn’t only warm your tummy but also nourishes your body since it is loaded with nutrients from variety of its nutritious ingredients.
Here are some of the nutrients that we can benefit from eating Law-uy
- Moringa leaves - have 15 times as much potassium as bananas and 7 times as much vitamin C as oranges. It also contains iron, calcium, protein, and amino acids, which support muscular growth and healing in your body. Additionally, it is abundant in antioxidants, which might help prevent cell damage and possibly strengthen your immune system.
- Squash - is a strong source of vitamins A, C, and B, plus they have a lot of antioxidants.
- Eggplant - Antioxidants in eggplant, including vitamins A and C, aid in preventing cell oxidation and damage. Additionally, it has a lot of polyphenols, which are organic plant substances that may improve how well your cells digest sugar if you have diabetes.
- Okra - is a vegetable that is high in antioxidants, which lower the risk of serious illnesses like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
- Patola - has a respectable amount of vitamin B5, which is useful in lowering blood levels of harmful cholesterol and triglycerides, hence lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This soup is wonderful for your health because it is full of fiber and is rich in vitamins and minerals. And because it is low in fat and high in nutrients, you can eat a few bowls throughout the day without worrying about gaining weight.
PDO I – Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND
References:
Law-uy
https://www.angsarap.net/2018/05/02/law-uy/
Law-uy recipe (Utan Bisaya)
